St. Paul General Dentist Discusses the Use and Benefits of Dental Crowns

Written by Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud on Mar 10, 2015

What is a dental crown? 

Dental crowns (“caps”) are one of dentistry’s most versatile types of restorations at our St. Paul Dental Implants Office. Crowns are a type of dental restoration which, when cemented into place, fully cup over the portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. In comparison, fillings are dental restorations that fill in or cover just a portion of a tooth. Since dental crowns encase the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a dental crown in effect becomes the tooth’s new outer surface.

Although there are several types of crowns porcelain are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

When is a dental crown used?
A crown essentially becomes the new tooth restoring it to its original shape and may be used to strengthen broken, fractured teeth, cover large or fractured fillings or for cosmetic enhancement. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This protects the tooth, prevents it from breaking, and restores it to its full function.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment at St. Paul, Minneapolis Dental Implants Office will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) used to create a temporary crown as well as your permanent custom crown.

The dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Your temporary crown is then placed and your dentist will ensure a proper bite.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure that spacing and bite are accurate. You will receive instructions for care and cleaning before you are sent home with a beautiful, enhanced smile.